French striker Karim Benzema, who was on bad terms with his club Al-Ittihad, joined another Saudi club, Al-Hilal, current leader of its championship, where he signed a one and a half year contract. The 2022 Golden Ball, aged 38 and author of 8 goals in 14 league matches this season, arrives free in his new team.
The French striker had not participated in Al-Ittihad’s last two matches, unhappy with the extension offer made to him, several media reported. Benzema would have notably received a proposal from the Nigerian Michael Emenalo, sports director of the Saudi championship, which he considered “insulting” since it would amount to “playing for free” outside of his image rights, according to his entourage.
Benzema: “This chapter ends”
In the evening, Karim Benzema published a farewell message to his former club on his social networks: “Al-Ittihad, this chapter ends, but respect and gratitude will remain forever,” wrote the French international. Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates and especially the supporters for your welcome, your love and the energy that you transmitted to me every day. This trip brought me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and everything we shared. I wish you the best for the future. »
The former French international (97 caps, 37 goals) joined the Jeddah club in 2023 after 14 seasons at Real Madrid during which he notably won five Champions Leagues. He was crowned Saudi Arabian champion last season. Behind leader Al-Hilal by 12 points, Al-Ittihad seems to have lost all chances of defending its league title.
The two clubs are both owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF). His last appearance in Blue dates back to June 13, 2022 during a 1-0 defeat against Croatia in the Nations League, at the Stade de France.
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